UN peacekeeping mission ends in Western Sahara
The United Nations' mission in the disputed territory ceased operations Sunday after 35 years due to a US-Russia UN Security Council dispute.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara ended Sunday after 35 years of operations. The mission's mandate was abruptly terminated following a US-Russia disagreement at UN headquarters concerning the territory's future.
Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN secretary general, stated that November 1, 2026, marked the beginning of the liquidation period. A smaller team will manage the orderly transport of assets from troop-contributing countries and the disposal of UN equipment.
The mission, established in 1991, had been repeatedly extended. Russia vetoed a US resolution supporting Morocco's sovereignty claim and ending the mission, while a subsequent Russian resolution to extend it was voted down, leading to its cessation.
Why it mattersThe end of the UN peacekeeping mission raises concerns about stability in the mineral and fisheries-rich Western Sahara, a territory claimed by Morocco and the Polisario Front.